National Law Enforcement 2025: Honoring and Remembering the Fallen Law Enforcement Officers

(Photo taken at the 2016 observance of Law Enforcement Memorial Day by Bobby Coggins)

(Editor's Note: The local observance of Law Enforcement memorial Day will be on Friday at noon at the Gazebo on IOtla Street in Franklin)

PRESS RELEASE (05-05-2025)
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE

Communities across the United States will honor and remember those law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as the family members, friends and fellow officers they left behind.

The names of the officers from North Carolina will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC.

The Fraternal Order of Police, (FOP), will be holding a ceremony for all our North Carolina Law Enforcement Officers on Friday, May 16, 12:00 noon, at the Gazebo on Main Street in Franklin. Sheriff Brent Holbrooks stated, “Honoring those who served with courage and sacrifice, may their legacy inspire us to uphold justice and protect our communities now and always.” From local, state, and federal law enforcement, their duties command dedication. The jobs are often thankless and take them away from their families for long hours. Rarely do officers know what their days have in store for them. Law enforcement officers are one of the few who run toward danger instead of away from danger. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, the average number of law enforcement deaths per year is 163.0

Franklin Police Chief Devin Holland said, “The profession of law enforcement has always been noble and respectful. Having served almost 29 years in law enforcement, I still hold the same nobility and respect to a high standard. It is a profession that can make profound differences in the lives of others each day. I am very proud to be a leader in law enforcement, and even more proud of the men and women who serve.”

This solemn service honors fallen North Carolina peace officers over the last year. Each name is called out with their “end-of-watch.” Flags are flown at half-staff on May 15 th in honor of these officers.

“We remember law enforcement officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. Macon County’s Law Enforcement Memorial Service is a tribute to the brave men and women who have provided dedicated service to our communities. We honor their sacrifices, their courage, and roles in providing safety and security for our citizens. Such memorials acknowledge those who have lost their lives and encourage future generations to maintain the principles of service, integrity, and justice,” stated Highlands Police Chief, Andrea J. Holland. FOP President, Tony Ashe invites and encourages everyone to attend the May 16 th Memorial Service.

NC State Trooper Michael Gerra said, “I’ve learned people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. I believe this reflects law enforcement officers.”